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Report: Josh Barnett Returning to UFC

Josh Barnett has stated publicly in recent months that he would like to return to the UFC, and it appears as thought the highly regarded vet will be competing in the Octagon soon.

According to a report from USA Today / MMA Junkie.com, the 35 year-old heavyweight has signed a multifight deal with the UFC, and is expected to fight for the promotion later this year. No specific details regarding who or when Barnett will fight were available.

Although the UFC has not made any official announcement regarding the signing, the aforementioned report cites company officials as sources.

Barnett has not fought in the Octagon since 2002, when he defeated Randy Couture to become UFC champion. Barnett failed his post-fight drug test, however, and was stripped of his title.

Since then, the Washington fighter has competed for notable organizations like PRIDE, Strikeforce, Sengoku and DREAM among others.

Barnett (32-6) is coming off a first round, submission win over Nandor Guelmino in January, after losing by unanimous decision to Daniel Cormier last May.